Modi skips ASEAN Summit, could miss scheduled Trump talks
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will skip the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, raising doubts about a potential meeting with US President Donald Trump.
Modi called Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to inform him of his decision. Anwar shared the conversation on Facebook Thursday. “He announced that he would attend online given the Deepavali celebrations that are still being celebrated in India at that time,” Anwar wrote. He added, “I respect the decision and extend my Deepavali greetings to him and all the people of India.”
Modi also confirmed his virtual participation in a post on X, though he did not provide a reason for skipping the trip. The Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of External Affairs did not comment immediately. Reports suggest scheduling conflicts and Deepavali celebrations influenced his decision. External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will likely represent India at the summit.
The decision comes amid heightened tensions between India and the US. The Trump administration imposed a 50% tariff on Indian exports, partly to penalize India for buying oil from Russia. Trump said Tuesday that he spoke with Modi, who assured him India would cut Russian energy purchases. New Delhi has not confirmed any compliance.
Trade relations between the two nations, which had warmed over recent years, have cooled sharply. The 50% tariff is among the highest in Asia and has complicated talks on a broader trade deal. Officials from both countries continue negotiations to find an equitable solution. Bloomberg reported earlier this week that the sides have no major differences, and the talks are progressing well.
Meanwhile, Washington recently blacklisted Russia’s largest oil producers, making it increasingly difficult for India to continue Russian oil imports. Senior executives at Indian refiners told reporters that the restrictions could severely disrupt supplies. They requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.
Trump has repeatedly emphasized that he wants India to reduce purchases of Russian oil. Officials say Modi has conveyed willingness to deepen energy ties with the US, but no formal confirmation exists regarding curbs on Russian oil imports.
Observers note that Modi’s virtual participation at the ASEAN summit reflects careful balancing. India aims to maintain its regional presence while managing domestic considerations, including the ongoing Deepavali festivities. At the same time, Modi signals continued engagement with global leaders.
The ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur will address regional security, trade, and geopolitical issues. Modi’s absence may affect bilateral discussions with several leaders, including Trump, but India will remain represented through its diplomatic delegation. Analysts say Jaishankar’s presence ensures India’s voice at key meetings.
As negotiations with the US continue, India faces a delicate balancing act between maintaining energy security, managing trade relations, and sustaining regional diplomatic ties. Modi’s virtual attendance marks a compromise that allows India to participate without disrupting domestic commitments.
